Explorer 1 First american satellite in space

thingiverse

This is a replica of America's first satellite, Explorer 1. Launched on February 1, 1958, at 03:48 UTC, it made an unexpected discovery - the Van Allen radiation belt. This scale model is one-fifth the size of the original and stands about 40cm tall. To print this model, simply cut it into sections as desired. A tube runs through the center, allowing you to use a pin (included in the files) to align the pieces for assembly. For the antennas, use 1mm steel wire. As one of my first designs, I'm eager to create more models. Once my initial print is complete, I'll post photos and appreciate feedback from anyone who prints this model, as well as any corrections you may notice. The model now includes a stand and wall mount. You can choose to display your Explorer 1 on a pedestal or mounted on the wall. The wall mount consists of four pieces: attach the part with the mounting hole to your wall, then glue the rod to the section that fits over the "wall piece," and finally secure the "clamp" in place as desired. PLA is suitable for the "clamp" part. I've designed two versions of the stand - one as a complete model with a tube inside, matching the rocket's pin, and another sliced version. This design eliminates the need for supports on the stand. If you find the stand too small, please let me know or post a comment, and I'll create a larger version. For now, the stand holds the rocket securely without being overly large. A note: I haven't tested the wall mount yet, so there's a chance it may not work as intended. However, it should function properly. I hope you enjoy this model! When printing my own replica in three sections, the joining pins with a diameter of 5.9mm fit perfectly into the tube with a diameter of 6mm. Depending on your printer's accuracy, you may need to adjust the pin size. The holes for the antennas were slightly too small; heating up the antenna ends allowed me to push them in securely, and a small drop of superglue held them in place. I look forward to creating more spacecraft models and appreciate any feedback or suggestions you may have.